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Similar to Gardening sheet solanum wallacei
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Gardening sheet solanum wallacei
- 1. Catalina Nightshade – Solanum wallacei
(so-LAN-um
wah-LASS-ee-eye)
Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade Family)
Native to: Channel Islands of S. CA and Baja; uncommon on slopes and canyons in chaparral <
1500 ft. elevation.
perennial sub-shrub
mature height: 2-4 ft.
mature width: 3-8 ft.
Sprawling/spreading perennial, similar to Solanum xanti, but larger. Leaves rounded, to 4 or more
inches long with soft hairs. Leaves sticky due glandular secretions. Note: All parts of plant are
Growth characteristics:
toxic if eaten.
Blooms in spring – usually between March and May. Flowers are typical in shape
for the Nightshades, but very large and showy. The blue-purple flowers with yellow centers bloom in
clusters at the tip of the stems. Fruits begin green, ripening to dark purple. Birds eat the berries.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Most often used in dry perennial beds or gardens with a ‘Catalina Island’ theme.
Easy to grow and water-wise. Good choice for slopes, canyon bottoms. Best with some shade, so
consider for use under oaks, other water-wise shade trees. Pair with yellow-flowered sunflowers or
Diplacus species. Rare in the wild.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native Nightshades.
Attracts: Good bird habitat: provides cover and fruits for food.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun only on immediate coast; Part-shade or dappled sun elsewhere.
Well-drained soils; any local pH.
Drought tolerant once established ; Water Zone 1-2 or even 2
None needed
Management:
Pinch during growing season to promote bushy growth. Easy.
Propagation: from seed:
?? fresh seed in spring
by cuttings: ??
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 8, 13, 14
4/30/13
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